Christie Opposes Driver's Licenses For Undocumented Immigrants
TRENTON, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie says he would veto legislation establishing a state driver's license for residents who cannot prove they are in the United States legally.
Christie on Monday called the idea dangerous. His statement came after hundreds marched to the New Jersey statehouse to call on lawmakers to support the measure.
"I am disturbed by the Legislature even considering making undocumented individuals eligible for New Jersey driver's licenses," the Republican presidential candidate said in a statement. "As a former United States Attorney, I know that the driver's license is the single most important piece of homeland security information. Yet the Legislature proposes giving that to people with no definitive proof of their identity."
Rally organizer Juan Pablo Orjuela says the legislation is important because so many immigrants in New Jersey need a car in order to get to work. He says the measure could promote safety by encouraging people to purchase auto insurance.
About 450 marchers first met at Trenton's War Memorial then walked to the statehouse steps. Some carried flags. Others wore stickers reading "Drive Safe NJ." Many spoke Spanish.
The Assembly Homeland Security Committee considered the measure Monday.
(TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)